For the many of you who know me Christmas is without a doubt my favorite time of year. As such, I jumped at the opportunity to majestically cruise along the Danube River traversing five central European countries, visiting the Christmas markets.
Rivers were the original European Highways. How could I allow this bucket list adventure to pass me by?
Value Extraordinaire! The all-inclusive river cruise experience included our delicious meals and unlimited regional wine and beer. I thoroughly enjoyed the other passengers that we dined with. (As of this post I am already booked on a river cruise upcoming in August.) The unlimited specialty coffees offered throughout the cruise were a big hit with me. Experienced guides provided onboard lectures as well as enriching excursions at each stop. We were not able to make use of the fleet of bicycles but that would be my first thought for a spring river cruise. Last but not least, there were only 130 passengers~!
Such a delight! The markets' brightly decorated stalls sold wooden toys, Bohemian crystal, handmade jewelry, classic Czech marionettes and so much more. Believe me you won't go hungry with the festive offerings of baked apples, honeyed gingerbread, vánocvka (a braided pastry studded with raisins), and vosí hnízda' ( nutty cookies heavy with rum). The ambiance of the Christmas market was further enhanced by the amazing aromas created by a delicious sweet mulled wine.
My thoughts: When cruising the Danube River in Eastern Europe you are able to glimpse the small towns and cities scattered along its banks. We docked right in the heart of town!
Vienna, Austria.... stylishly sophisticated!
Vienna's Christkindlmarket on Rathausplatz flings open its stall shutters in mid-November, and three million visitors flock here each year for glass ornaments, wooden toys, and specialty candles.
Entertainment on the river cruise: We were treated to Bavarian musicians, evenings with a live piano player, and several regional performances. Of course we were delighted by the Christmas carols!
The most famous market is in Nuremberg, Germany.
On the Friday before Advent, the golden Christmas Angel appears on the high gallery of the medieval square to recite the opening prologue for one of the biggest and most famous Christmas markets of them all. Two million shoppers descend upon the 180 candy cane-striped stalls that fill the main square with crafts, ornaments, and toys. The air is filled with gingerbread, cider, and bratwurst on the grill!
The most authentic market was at the Thurn und Taxis Palace.
Observation: You will never experience rough water or motion sickness on a river cruise - only smooth and peaceful sailing throughout your journey.
Regensburg, Germany
Tip: The Christmas treasures are often times not mass produced. I looked for stalls where the vendor was actually making his products.
I am concerned as my purchases will require me to check my luggage. Not happening and thankfully I have a few days to think on it. We disembarked in Nuremberg, Germany and there was a train or bus option to Prague for a two day post river cruise extension. I have been fortunate enough to visit Prague in the fall and than now in December. Prague is intriguing and romantic at any time of the year.
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
Am I in a time warp? The enchanting town of Český Krumlov, buried in the hills outside of Prague,is encircled by its river and dominated by its castle.
In conclusion: River cruising on the Danube for the Christmas markets was a dream come true for me. I am certain that the Danube River in Eastern Europe would be enchanting in the spring, summer and fall. The experience would be very different... and still fascinating. I've already booked my next river cruise on the Douro River in Portugal for this summer. Stay tuned!
Oh and just to give you an idea for flights you may be on in the future, I did have to throw out some of my tired clothing in order to meet the requirements for a carry on bag. C'est la vie! There are worse things in life.
Please call me if you would like to talk travel 630.267.3054 or kathymoran@kmorantravel.com - www.kmorantravel.com.
